East Africa presents excellent opportunities with its expanding tourism infrastructure and natural assets for Swiss-Belhotel International, says Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President – Operations & Development, EMEAI as well as Senior Vice President – Group Human Resources & Talent Development.
This year, Swiss-Belhotel International is participating - for the first time at the corporate level - Africa’s largest tourism exhibition, Magical Kenya Travel Expo (October 1 to 3). Voivenel says, “We want to use this opportunity to reinforce our presence in the region while deepening our network of tourism stakeholders. The decision to participate highlights our growing interest in Africa and reflects our confidence in its long-term potential as a travel and investment destination. “We are open to discussions with like-minded owners who share our commitment to quality, scalability and destination-driven hospitality.” Swiss-Belhotel International has a strong presence in two East African countries that are considered a hub for safari tourism, which is surging in popularity. There’s growing interest from the Middle East as well as the European Union, particularly for premium leisure travel and nature-based experiences, Voivenel says. “Our entry into the region began with Swiss-Belinn Nairobi, located in the tranquil Kileleshwa district. It is owned by NIBS Resort Company Limited and managed by Antony Wanyoike, Stella Wanjiru Wanyoike, and Eric Wanyoike. “Shortly thereafter, we signed Nairobi Safari Club, which was rebranded as Nairobi Safari Club by Swiss-Belhotel under the ownership of Clare Njeri Githunguri and Lilian Joy Nyagaki Githunguri. “In Tanzania, we are expanding with Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar, developed in partnership with Crown Hotel and Resort Limited. This beachfront property is among the few internationally branded midscale resorts on the island, offering exceptional value and access to one of Africa’s fastest-growing leisure destinations. “In July, this year, we signed a new five-star property, Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The property is owned by Astra Capital Limited, and is strategically located in Masaki, the high-end area on the prestigious Msasani Peninsula of Dar es Salaam.” While the East African properties primarily target the leisure segment, there is also strong business interest in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam as commercial hubs, Voivenel explains. From a Middle East and European perspective, these properties appeal because of their authenticity, comfort and accessibility. Zanzibar offers pristine beaches and a serene environment, Nairobi provides a gateway to curated safari experiences while Dar es Salaam is a major port city. “Our goal is to tap into the growing popularity of these destinations by offering travellers distinctive experiences that blend local character with the comfort and consistency of an international brand. “Travellers are becoming more discerning, choosing locations based on their vacation needs and the type of experiences they seek, including cultural immersion and natural beauty,” says Voivenel. “The hospitality industry is in a period of profound transformation. It’s not only about growth in room numbers, it’s about growing the right way, with purpose, partnerships and performance. Voivenel says, “We are seeing demand shift towards curated, meaningful experiences, both in leisure and business segments. “At Swiss-Belhotel International, we are committed to delivering value to our guests, owners and communities by staying agile, investing in our people and expanding thoughtfully into high-potential markets. “Africa and the Middle East are integral to our global journey, and we welcome partners who are ready to explore that future with us,” he concludes.